Archive for the ‘Plant Care’ Category
Christmas Holly – a short history
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Featuring prickly green leaves and small red berries, Holly is a popular Christmas flower. Dating back to ancient Roman times, Pagans gave it to the god Saturn to promote healthy agriculture.
Centuries later, Celtic priests wore Holly crowns during forest ceremonies. Today, Holly symbolises truth and is said to provide protection from negative thoughts – a great plant for the New Year!
Hang a wreath of Holly on your front door to invite family and friends into your home this Holiday season. Or plant a Holly bush in your garden or balcony; they do well in the cooler Southern states of Australia.
December birth flower – Poinsettia
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Deep scarlet and green in colour, the Poinsettia is December’s birth flower and a popular decoration for Christmas. Made up of clusters of red leaves, the ‘flower’ sits in the centre.
Originating in Mexico and used by the indigenous people for its fever-reducing qualities and reddish dye, the Poinsettia naturally flowers in autumn and winter, and grows best in warm climates.
In Australia, the Poinsettia is made to flower during summer by placing it in a darker position and mimicking the short winter days. Keep your Poinsettia in a warm spot, protected from wind and frost, with about 6 hours of indirect sunlight.